Industrial bronchitis
Alternative Names
Occupational bronchitisTreatment
The purpose of treatment is to avoid the substance that is causing the irritation.
Getting more air into the workplace or wearing masks to filter out the offending air particles may help. Some cases of industrial bronchitis go away without treatment. Other times, a person may need inhaled anti-inflammatory medications.
If you are at risk or have experienced this problem and you smoke, stop smoking.
Supportive measures include:
- Breathing humidified air
- Increased fluid intake
- Rest
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome may be good as long as you can stop being exposed to the irritant. Chronic disability from industrial bronchitis is rare.
Possible Complications
Continued exposure to irritating gases, fumes, or other substances could lead to permanent lung damage.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you are regularly exposed to dusts, fumes, strong acids, or other chemicals that can affect the lungs and you develop symptoms of bronchitis.
References
Goldman L, Ausiello D.Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2007.
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